Ski training, instruction, adventure, backcountry skiing, trips, vacation, Lake Tahoe, California

NASTC AVALANCHE LEVEL I CERTIFICATION
The level 1 course is a 3-day program that is designed to give you: an understanding of avalanche formation, "nature's billboard" observation skills, the ability to use an avalanche transceiver and probe and to dig a snow study pit. Pass the test and you get your Level 1 certification the final day. The following are the goals of this course: 1. The student will be taught safe travel methods in avalanche terrain. 2. The student will be shown how to use various rescue equipment. 3. The student will be taught and execute mock rescues in the field. 4. The student will be introduced to the avalanche triangle, weather, snowpack, terrain, and the human factor. Suggested reading before the course: Snow Sense: by Jill Fredston and Doug Fesler Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain: by Bruce Tremper Avalanche Aware: by John Moynier Course dates: February 4-6, 2011 Price: TBA Includes: 3 days of avalanche safety learning and a Level I AIARE certificate Levels: 6-9 Equipment Suggestions: Alpine touring gear telemark gear, splitboard, or snowshoes, backpack, avalanche beacon, shovel and probe - see the equipment/packing list for a complete list of necessary equipment. 100% Off Piste You can rent backcountry gear and avalanche safety equipment from the Backcountry Ski Shop in Truckee (530-582-0909). Be sure to let them know you are with NASTC for a discount. You will need to pick up your equipment the night before the course by 6pm. The Backcountry is located in Truckee at 11400 Donner Pass Road (next to the 7-11 and across the street from Wild Cherries coffeehouse and the Fire Station).
Sample Daily Schedule: 9:00am - Meet at the NASTC classroom for indoor session of avalanche safety course 12:00pm - Lunch break 1:00pm - Head outside for the on-hill practical portion 4:00pm - End of training day
PACKING LIST: AT Gear, boots, and poles Shovel, probe, avalanche beacon, backpack Helmet (recommended, but not required) Several pairs of underwear & ski socks (wool/polypropylene blend or polypro socks best) Top and bottom long underwear (silk or polypro) 2-3 turtlenecks (polypro best) Fleece layer, top and bottom One or two pairs gortex or other water/wind proof material outer ski pants Gortex or other water/wind proof material ski jacket Spring and winter gloves (2 pair, waterproof) Warm hat, baseball cap, headband, facemask, and neck warmer Goggles and sunglasses w/leashes (2 pair goggles if you have them) Evening clothes: sweats, slippers Toiletries, including sunscreen & chapstick with SPF, soap & shampoo, aspirin, body lotion Water bottle All Optional: altimeter watch, camera